Global perspective Human stories

Burundi: as new President takes office, Annan laments unstable environment

Burundi: as new President takes office, Annan laments unstable environment

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today cautioned that the second transition phase in Burundi, marked by the transfer of the Presidency from Tutsi minority to Hutu majority, was starting in an unstable environment as conflict persisted despite ceasefire agreements.

Former Vice President Domitien Ndayizeye was sworn in as new President, together with Alphonse Kadege as Vice President, in the second phase of power transfer as outlined by the 2000 Arusha Peace Agreement.

Mr. Annan, in a message delivered by his Special Representative for Burundi, Berhanu Dinka, called on all parties to cease hostilities and respect the commitments undertaken. He also reminded the incoming leaders of the tasks ahead.

"The Government will have to establish the necessary mechanism for the return and resettlement of refugees and displaced persons," the Secretary-General said. "The Government will also have to establish the necessary mechanisms for the return and resettlement of refugees and displaced persons."

Despite the change in authority, Mr. Annan said, "the United Nations, which has always supported Burundi, will continue to uphold and promote the peace process and the effective implementation of the ceasefire agreements through the Joint Ceasefire Commission. It will also support the Africa force."

Extending his warm congratulations to the new incumbent, Mr. Annan also paid tribute to outgoing President, Pierre Buyoya for "demonstrating maturity and wisdom in reaching a consensus which does credit to Burundi and the Burundians."

He also thanked the African Union for deploying the Africa mission and its military observers in Burundi, Heads of States and other personalities of the region, "for the countless efforts they have made to restore peace in Burundi."